Discerning travellers seeking respite from city life will find their sanctuary at Calcot & Spa, nestled within 220 acres of rewilded Cotswolds countryside. This refined destination positions itself as more than just a luxury hotel – it represents a comprehensive retreat where busy couples can decompress while maintaining elevated standards.
The Spa Experience
The wellness facilities at Calcot serve as a cornerstone of the property’s appeal. The spa complex presents a thoughtfully curated selection of treatments delivered in serene surroundings. Beyond the expected range of massages and facials, the spa distinguishes itself through its results-driven approach, particularly evident in its specialist CACI and Comfort Zone facial treatments. The outdoor fireside hot tub offers a notable point of differentiation, providing guests with an opportunity to unwind while taking in views of the Cotswold landscape. The establishment demonstrates particular attention to detail in its treatment rooms, which have been purposefully designed to facilitate complete relaxation from the moment guests cross the threshold.
Accommodation
The property’s room portfolio demonstrates careful consideration of diverse guest requirements. The accommodation options range from intimate spaces ideal for solo business travellers to more expansive suites suitable for extended stays or family gatherings. The cottage suite presents a particularly compelling option, featuring two bedrooms, a private garden terrace, and thoughtful amenities such as a log burner and well-appointed pantry. The Generous Rooms category warrants specific mention for its practical approach to luxury, offering additional space alongside executive-focused amenities such as Nespresso coffee machines and complimentary Wi-Fi. The attention to detail extends to the inclusion of fresh fruit and homemade shortbread – small touches that elevate the guest experience.
Dining Excellence
The Dining Experience at Calcot’s Brasserie reveals Executive Chef John Jewell’s commitment to refined yet approachable cuisine. The evening begins with freshly baked sourdough, served with premium Arbequina oil and aged balsamic vinegar – a sophisticated prelude that sets the tone for the courses to follow.
Among the starters, the Westcombe Cheddar Soufflé demonstrates remarkable technical precision. The soufflé rises admirably, its exterior maintaining the expected delicate crust while revealing a light, airy interior infused with the distinctive sharp notes of this celebrated Somerset cheese. The addition of fresh chives provides a subtle accent that complements rather than overwhelms.
The Hand Dived Orkney Scallop presents an equally accomplished starter. The kitchen’s commitment to superior sourcing is evident in the selection of these premium Scottish shellfish. The accompaniment of caramelised cauliflower espuma demonstrates contemporary technique, while the caper and raisin garnish introduces thoughtful contrasts of salt and sweetness.
The main course offering of Stokes Marsh Farm Chateaubriand emerges as a centrepiece designed for sharing. This prime cut of beef, sourced from the respected local farm, arrives precisely cooked and accompanied by considered sides. The truffle mashed potato delivers expected luxury, while the cauliflower and broccoli cheese and cavolo nero provide well-judged accompaniments. The red wine jus exhibits proper reduction and seasoning, completing a dish that honours both the quality of its primary ingredient and classical technique.
The dessert course maintains the high standards. The Nicolas Berger Dark Chocolate Tartlet showcases the craftsmanship of this celebrated chocolate maker. The pastry demonstrates textbook execution, while the hazelnut element and salted caramel ice cream provide welcomed textural and temperature contrasts. The addition of bergamot introduces an unexpected but well-calculated citrus note that elevates the entire composition.
This carefully constructed menu demonstrates the kitchen’s ability to balance classical technique with contemporary presentation while maintaining focus on ingredient quality and thoughtful flavour combinations.
Calcot & Spa successfully delivers a refined country retreat that meets the exacting standards of the modern business executive. Its combination of wellness facilities, versatile accommodation options, and accomplished dining venues creates an environment where leisure and luxury coexist seamlessly.
